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that year was $404.09. Mims Roberts resigned as Music Director and was replaced by Truett Broadus. On November 17 an all day Homecoming Service was held, and several of the former pastors returned to be with us.
During 1964, a mimeograph machine was purchased from Amana Business Machines the roof was replaced, and the exterior of the church was painted. The Brotherhood Department installed posts around the rear lot of the church. The church recommemded that two men serve as ushers to greet visitors and members each Sunday. The Sunday School reported a membership of 288. A Book of Remembrances was discussed.
In 1965, Dewey Lane, who had replaced Truett Broadus as Minister of Music, resigned. Charles Thomas' electric organ, which had been loaned to the church, was returned to his home to be used as a trade- in for a new one. The pastor recommended the adoption of appointing a "Deacon of the Week" for visits to the hospital, shut-ins, etc. Merle Little became church clerk and Ethel Mae Fillingame was employed as church secretary.
Dr. Elwyn N. Wilkinson became our interim Pastor when Rev. Emory Green left on January 17, 1966, to go to Arlington Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Florida. Mr. Salters and Mr. King were appointed to get repair estimates for hurricane damage to the pastorium roof. Alfred Cospelich was hired as Custodian of the church and recieved $1.25 an hour for services rendered. A. H. Gregory, M. L. Hill and Dr. T. B. Sellers were proclaimed Life Deacons after having served 15 years or longer in that capacity. The church was asked to support the community blood drive sponsored by Hancock Bank. Bro. Wilkinson asked for donations to defray the expenses of a radio and TV appeal against legalized liquor. Bro. Wilkinson served as Interim Pastor for about one and one half years.
On July 27, 1967, J. T. Dearing was recalled as Pastor of the church. His salary was to be $6,000, an increase of $700 over the present salary, with a car allowance of $1,200, an increase of $600. The Minister of Education and Music in the budget was allowed $3,380. Renovations to the Fellowship Hall and Sunday School rooms consisted of the laying of new tile. Ronnie Hague became our new Music Director. On Sunday July 13, 1969, the church dedicated its
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First Baptist Church the-First-100-Years-1896-1996-17
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